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Why Eye?

Eye movements – whether part of a yoga practice or other – can help overcome age-related, progressive loss of flexibility and tone in the eye muscles. Eyes get used to routine patterns and lose their ability to focus at different distances. Moving and stretching those muscles enhances vision, balance, and eye health.

According to optometrist, William Moskowitz, “you can increase your range of motion with eye movements. Even more significant, is increasing peripheral awareness. Practicing eye movements helps you become more aware of the space around you.” Movements and palming (cupping the palms over the eyes) creates muscle relaxation through the peripheral nerve fibers. Photoreceptors break down and are reconstructed every minute says, Robert Abel, author of The Eye Care Revolution. Eyes desperately need darkness to recover from the constant stress of light.

That’s why eye. A little inSIGHT for eyeSIGHT.

 

 

 

 

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The Power of Mantras

By Guest Blogger, Jayadeva
Mantras are sacred sound vibrations. These phrases  have many benefits when repeated regularly. They quiet the mind, settle emotions, bring you into the present moment, and draw your mind to more subtle states of consciousness.  Here are some examples of great mantras:
Om (the primal sound of all being)
Om Shanthi (Peace)
Om Namah Shivaya (bowing to the consciousness of Infinite Goodness)
Mantras can be repeated in meditation, before going to sleep, first thing in the morning, before a difficult conversation, while taking a walk…any time is the right time. It’s also powerful to write mantras down in repetition. This solidifies and resonates all aspects of your being and creates a mental groove that becomes deeper and clearer as you continue day after day. Mantras create an “armor,” protecting you physically, mentally, and energetically. Mantra vibrations can also support healing as you direct their energy. Choose a mantra, repeat it a lot, and enjoy the great blessings which will unfold for you.

Continue reading “The Power of Mantras”

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Belly Breathing Benefits

This targeted method of deep breathing goes by many different names, but they all mean the same thing. Deep breathing through the belly signals the nervous system to calm down. Building this breathing practice will benefit sleep patterns, strengthen the immune system, and enhance the digestive system. Flexing the diaphragm muscle massages the digestive organs helping to relieve conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and acid reflux. The most immediate benefit is that this practice lowers blood pressure.

Research indicates that 9 out of 10 people are chest breathers who take short, shallow breaths into their chest all day. This method of breathing tells the nervous system the body is under stress. The body reacts by releasing cortisol, increasing blood pressure. The body and immune system become strained.

Try spending a period of time each day taking belly breaths. Place one hand on the belly and the other on the chest. Inhale through the nose, puffing the belly out (pushing one hand away) and letting the breath rise. Allow the cells of the body to become better oxygenated as you take in 7 times more oxygen than a regular chest breath. Try this before you go to sleep or first thing in the morning. It’s great for insomnia. Try this sitting at your desk.

Find your breath. It’s right under your nose!

 

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Get Spicy

Spices and herbs add more than just taste, they boost nutrition by adding antioxidants, phytonutrients, and anti-inflammatory power. Here are five of the mightiest:

  1. Cumin – High in antioxidants and great for digestion. Effective for respiratory issues and helps to keep blood sugar levels stable.
  2. Cinnamon – Helps stabilize blood sugar levels, relieves pain and stiffness in the joints, and has anti-inflammatory benefits. Also has a positive effect on memory and attention.
  3. Oregano – Is a strong anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral spice. It also relieves inflammation and helps with allergies as well as aches and pains.
  4. Ginger – Ginger is a mighty anti-oxidant. It is commonly used in the treatment of colds, coughs, and flu. It reduces nausea and vomiting and helps with motion sickness. As a strong anti-inflammatory, it manages swelling and helps in the treatment of arthritis. Ginger also helps fight cancer and reduces cholesterol.
  5. Turmeric – Slows the development of Alzheimer’s by decreasing inflammation in the brain. It is a potent anti-inflammatory that helps reduce joint pain and improve liver functioning. Turmeric is one of the mightiest anti-cancer spices.

As with any changes to the diet, it is important to consult with a physician. Dietary changes can interact with medications and supplements. All of these mighty spices can easily be incorporated into everyday recipes. Spice is nice!